Southern Research BioScholars Institute (July 20-24)

A one-week, premier summer program for rising 10th-, 11th-, 12th-grade students and graduating seniors.

Welcome to Southern Research's BioScholars Institute!

BioScholars Institute is an exclusive, immersive summer program designed for rising 10th-grade students through graduating seniors who are eager to deepen their knowledge of biotechnology. This weeklong experience builds on foundational skills, introducing participants to advanced concepts and cutting-edge techniques at the intersection of epidemiology, vaccine development, and cancer research.

Throughout the week, students will engage in hands-on experiments that simulate real-world biotechnological challenges. They’ll tackle a simulated disease outbreak, calculate disease transmissibility and lethality, and explore the science behind vaccines, including precision pipetting and an interactive vaccine activity.

In the latter part of the program, participants will focus on cancer research. From analyzing genetic mutations to using laboratory techniques like gel electrophoresis and ELISA, students will conduct independent case studies to diagnose and recommend treatments for hypothetical cancer patients. They’ll also explore the differences between monogenic and polygenic factors in disease, calculate polygenic risk scores for breast cancer, and discuss how these insights are shaping personalized medicine.

More than just experiments, BioScholars Institute fosters critical thinking, teamwork, and innovation. With mentoring opportunities and the chance to explore potential careers, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of biotechnology’s role in solving today’s most pressing health challenges.

Get ready for an extraordinary week of discovery, exploration, and innovation at BioScholars Institute—where tomorrow’s biotech leaders take their next steps.

CAMP DATES

July 20-24

LOCATION

Southern Research STEM Outreach Building
2000 9th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205

ELIGIBILITY

Students must be rising 10th-12th grade students, or graduating seniors.

COST

BioScholars Institute has a $100 registration fee per student. The fee includes all lab supplies, lunch, and camp swag. If your student can no longer attend, full refunds are available for cancellations no less than two weeks before the registered week of BioScholars Institute. No refunds will be issued for no-shows or cancellations after July 6, 2026.

Please note that Eventbrite service and processing fees are non-refundable and will not be reimbursed.

DEADLINE

Registration for BioScholars Institute closes on May 15, or until all spaces are filled. Secure your place today! A waitlist will be available once capacity is reached.

QUESTIONS

Please send questions to stem@southernresearch.org

WEBSITE

https://southernresearch.org/experience/bioscholars-institute/